Medical cannabis is rapidly gaining recognition as a promising alternative treatment for a range of chronic conditions in Australia, including chronic pain, anxiety, insomnia, PTSD, cancer-related symptoms, and more. As more patients explore the benefits of medical cannabis, it’s essential to understand how to make the most of this treatment, especially for those new to it.
If you’re starting your medical cannabis journey in Australia, here are five key pieces of advice to help you navigate the process and optimize your treatment plan.
1. Do Your Research
Before consulting with your doctor, it’s helpful to familiarize yourself with the different types of medical cannabis products available in Australia. Understanding what options exist, what they’re prescribed for, and how they’re used will allow for a more informed discussion with your healthcare provider.
In Australia, the most common forms of medical cannabis include flower, oil, vape cartridges, and edibles:
- Flower: This refers to the cannabis buds commonly seen in recreational markets. Patients can grind the buds and use them with a dry herb vaporizer. Flower is often prescribed for its fast-acting effects and versatility.
- Vape Cartridges: These are pre-filled cartridges of concentrated cannabis that attach to a battery-operated vaporizer. They offer a discreet, convenient way to dose, making them suitable for individuals with fine motor impairments or those seeking a quick, inconspicuous option.
- Oils: Often recommended for beginners, oils provide a controlled and consistent dosing method. They’re ideal for patients who prefer not to inhale cannabis or need a long-lasting, stable form of medication.
- Edibles: Though still relatively new to the Australian market, cannabis edibles like lozenges offer an alternative way to consume medical cannabis. This method is particularly appealing to those who prefer a smoke-free option.
Familiarize yourself with these terms and discuss with your doctor which option is best suited to your condition and personal comfort level.
2. Manage Your Expectations
Talking to an Australian doctor about a medical cannabis prescription can differ from traditional consultations. Cannabis treatments are highly individualized—what works for one patient may not work for another, and your doctor will need detailed information about your history with cannabis to tailor the treatment to your needs.
Honesty is crucial in this process. Many people might feel hesitant to disclose previous cannabis use due to its past legal status in Australia. However, sharing this information ensures your doctor can prescribe the right dosage and form, whether it’s THC or CBD-based. This transparency also helps set realistic expectations for what cannabis can do for your specific condition.
Remember, this is a two-way conversation. Express your preferences clearly—whether you’re not comfortable with a particular form of cannabis, or you have a strain in mind. Your doctor will take this into account when prescribing your medication to maximize its effectiveness.
3. Start ‘Low and Slow’
In the medical cannabis community, the phrase “low and slow” is considered a golden rule, and it’s particularly important in Australia where dosages are closely monitored by healthcare professionals. Most of the negative side effects associated with cannabis, such as paranoia, anxiety, or nausea, stem from taking too much too quickly.
Your doctor will establish a dosing schedule to help you start low and slowly increase your dosage over time (a process called “titrating”). It’s crucial to stick to this schedule, especially if you’re new to cannabis or a specific form like oils or edibles. Gradually increasing your dose helps you avoid unpleasant side effects while allowing you to gauge how the medication affects your symptoms.
4. Keep a Cannabis Journal
Unlike traditional medications, medical cannabis can have varying effects based on a multitude of factors including the strain, dosage, and your body’s unique biochemistry. This variability makes it essential to track your experiences with cannabis to optimize your treatment plan.
Keeping a journal of your cannabis use allows you to document what works best for you. Make notes on the type of product you used (e.g., flower, oil, vape), the dose, and how it affected your symptoms. Did it provide relief? Were there any side effects? Having this record will also be beneficial when you have follow-up appointments with your doctor, as it gives you a detailed reference point for refining your treatment.
Your journal doesn’t have to be complex—just simple, clear observations that help you and your doctor fine-tune your cannabis regimen.
5. Be Patient and Stay Open to Adjustments
Many Australian patients turn to medical cannabis after other treatment options have failed, leading to high expectations and sometimes frustration when results aren’t immediate. It’s important to remember that finding the right medical cannabis treatment plan can take time.
Be patient and communicate openly with your doctor about how you’re feeling and how the medication is working. Adjustments to your prescription may be necessary as you progress through your treatment. This flexibility is key to eventually finding the optimal balance of symptom relief without unwanted side effects.
In Australia, cannabis treatment is a personalized journey. While it can be challenging to wait for improvements, staying open to adjustments and maintaining clear communication with your healthcare provider can lead to significant long-term benefits.
Legal Considerations in Australia
In Australia, the legal framework around medical cannabis is highly regulated. Since 2016, medical cannabis has been legal under federal law, but patients must obtain a prescription from an authorized prescriber. The Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA) oversees approvals for medical cannabis prescriptions, and patients may need to apply through the Special Access Scheme or obtain a prescription from a doctor authorized under the Authorised Prescriber Scheme.
It’s also important to note that access to medical cannabis in Australia may vary by state. Some states and territories have different regulatory requirements, so it’s essential to stay informed about your local laws.
Accessing Medical Cannabis Through the Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme (PBS)
As of now, medical cannabis is generally not covered by the Australian Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme (PBS), meaning patients must pay out-of-pocket for treatment. Costs can vary depending on the type of product, dosage, and frequency of use. However, there are ongoing discussions about the potential inclusion of medical cannabis on the PBS, which could significantly reduce costs for patients in the future.
Final Thoughts
Starting medical cannabis treatment in Australia can feel overwhelming, especially with the variety of products and the individualized nature of the prescriptions. However, by conducting your own research, managing expectations, starting low and slow, keeping a detailed journal, and remaining patient, you can make the most of your medical cannabis experience and potentially achieve significant improvements in your health and well-being.
With more Australians embracing the therapeutic potential of medical cannabis, following these tips can help you navigate the treatment process and find the best approach for managing your specific condition.
